IPO activity in 2014 has been driven by the U.S., where proceeds have totaled $7.6 billion year-to-date. European countries contributed a total of $8 billion, while IPO activity in Asia reached $10.6 billion.

U.S. follow-on offerings, or when companies issue stock following an IPO, are down 31% compared to the same period last year. That reflects the slowest annual start since 2012.

Total activity in equity capital markets, including IPOs, follow-ons and convertible bonds, jumped 128% in the media and entertainment sector, which also posted a 446% increase in activity for mergers and acquisitions.